"Huzhou Post" volume, Tang dynasty, Yan Zhenqing's book, paper, running book, 27.6 cm in length, 50.2 cm across.
Interpretation:
"Outside the river, only Huzhou is the lowest lying area. This year, the waters from all the other states have converged here and flowed into Tai Lake, causing severe flooding of the fields and crops. Thanks to the governance of Secretary Liu, people's hearts are somewhat at ease. Otherwise, it would have been impossible to maintain stability. Presented by Zhenqing."
The scroll bears seals from various collectors and connoisseurs, including Song dynasty seals "Zhenghe" (two seals, both forged), "Shaoxing" (three seals, the top right and middle left seals are forged), "Jixia Qingshang" (Leisurely Appreciation During Free Time), "Neifu Shu Yin" (Imperial Library Seal); Yuan dynasty seals"Beiyuan Zhangshi Zhencang" (Treasured by Zhang of Northern Yan) and"Duanben"; Ming dynasty seal: "Hongwu Neifu Si Yin" (Seal of the Hongwu Imperial Library), "Xiang Molin Jianshang Zhang" (Seal of Appreciation by Xiang Molin); Qing dynasty seals "Liang Qingbiao Yin" (Seal of Liang Qingbiao), "Yizhou Jian shang" (Seal of Appreciation by Yizhou).
This letter is attributed to Yan Zhenqing and describes the flooding disaster in the Huzhou region and the subsequent pacification and relief provided to the people. Based on the content of the letter and historical records, it is estimated that the letter was written after the seventh year of the Dali era (772 AD), during Yan Zhenqing's tenure as the Governor of Huzhou. However, after expert examination, it has been determined that this letter is not actually by Yan Zhenqing. The reasons for this conclusion are as follows: first, the paper used for the letter is a polished bamboo paper with added powder, a type of paper that did not appear until the Song dynasty. Second, in terms of writing style, the author uses a round and flowing brush technique, with a graceful and varied appearance and moist ink tones. This style contrasts sharply with the somber tone of Yan Zhenqing's "Elegy for His Nephew" and the passionate intensity of the "Dispute Over Seating Positions." Additionally, the letter lacks the characteristic central stroke technique and the "trace of a leaky roof" quality found in Yan Zhenqing's works.
Therefore, it can be concluded that this letter is a Song dynasty imitation.
Catalogue References include "Moyuan Huiguan" (Comprehensive View of Calligraphy and Painting) by An Qi and "Shigutang Shuhuahui Kao" (Shigutang Compilation of Calligraphy and Painting) by Bian Yongyu
